8 Day Tour from New York City to Washington, DC

Vacation Overview

On this affordable vacation, arrive in “The Big Apple” and venture northwest through the Pocono Mountains to upstate New York. Cross the border to the Canadian side of the Niagara River and spend two nights in beautiful Niagara Falls. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Niagara Falls, and board the Maid of the Mist for a thrilling boat ride to view the thundering waterfalls from river level. During your free time in Niagara Falls, perhaps visit the Butterfly Conservatory, Great Gorge Adventure, or Botanical Gardens, or ride the aerial cable car. Next, travel southeast through the Appalachian Mountains to the City of Brotherly Love—Philadelphia. Explore the birthplace of American independence on your Philadelphia sightseeing tour before moving on to the U.S. capital, Washington DC. Washington DC is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your tour highlights the well-known sites, such as Arlington National Cemetery and the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials. Your vacation ends with free time to explore Washington DC.

Guides:

Local Guides for city sightseeing in New York City and Washington DC; services of a professional Tour Director.

NOTE:

Enjoy the spectacular colors of New York and surrounding areas on our special fall foliage departures: September 11 to October 2 (if Mother Nature permits).

Day 1New York City

Welcome to the “Big Apple!” Enjoy time at leisure to relax or to do some independent exploring.

Day 2New York City

New York City is one of the world’s most exciting cities, buzzing with atmosphere and packed with fascinating sights. On today’s sightseeing tour, see the major attractions—Broadway, the Empire State Building, Greenwich Village, bustling Chinatown, City Hall, Wall Street, and Trinity Church. This evening, choose from the city’s many fine restaurants or maybe take in a Broadway show.

Day 3New York City–Corning–Niagara Falls

Depart Manhattan, heading northwest across New Jersey through the Pocono Mountains and into upstate New York, arriving in Corning at midday. Late this afternoon, cross the border at Rainbow Bridge and proceed to the Canadian side of the Niagara River in Ontario. Spend the next two nights in beautiful Niagara Falls.

Day 4Niagara Falls

This morning, enjoy an included sightseeing excursion to Niagara Falls that includes a SIGHTSEEING CRUISE past the world-famous falls. Your afternoon is free, so consider visiting attractions such as the Butterfly Conservatory, Great Gorge Adventure, Botanical Gardens, and Niagara Parks Greenhouse, or maybe ride the aerial cable car. NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. When weather is unfavorable, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted. Last day of operation for the 2015 season is 24 October.

Day 5Niagara Falls–Philadelphia

Head southeast through the Appalachian Mountains and into the Susquehanna River Valley. Then, on to the handsome city of Philadelphia for an overnight stay.

Day 6Philadelphia–Washington DC Area

The birthplace of American independence, the “City of Brotherly Love” is steeped in history. Your morning orientation tour focuses on the historic landmarks, then on to the U.S. capital and seat of government, Washington DC, for a 2-night stay. Later, join the optional outing, featuring dinner followed by a tour of the city’s most famous monuments and memorials.

Day 7Washington DC Area

The nation’s capital is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your half-day tour with a Local Guide features Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, National WWII Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and other well-known sights. Stop for photos at the White House and Capitol Hill. The afternoon is free. Your Tour Director will suggest independent activities for exploring this fascinating city.

Day 8Washington DC

The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers to Dulles or Reagan International Airports are included. You can also extend your vacation with extra nights and explore Washington DC further with a variety of exciting optional excursions. For passengers who would like to return to New York City, the motorcoach will transfer you to Newark International Airport (please schedule flights after 5:30 pm) or to the Excelsior Hotel at no additional cost.

NEW YORK CITY Excelsior Hotel (MF)NIAGARA FALLS Skyline Inn (ST)PHILADELPHIA Wyndham Historic District Philadelphia (F)WASHINGTON DC AREA Crowne Plaza Old Town Alexandria (F)

This Cosmos travel package does not include meals. Most of our hotels offer anything from coffee to a full breakfast, so you can start the day the way you like best. At most lunch stops, your Tour Director will have information on local restaurants. Dinnertime is your chance to sample local cuisine. Sometimes your Tour Director will offer an optional dinner outing.

With Cosmos, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of your Tour Director. Averaging over a decade... we’d like you to meet a Tour Director, who is representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

BRENDA BROOKS

Years of Experience: 22 years

I have been conducting tours for many years. I love sharing my part of the world with travelers and watching them have fun, knowing that I play a part in their enjoyment. I am from the Deep South, so I feel that I have much to share in that area. I also conduct tours in the Midwest, the East, Southeast, Northeast, and Eastern Canada. Some of my favorite hobbies are cooking, entertaining, playing the piano, daily walks, reading, and travel!